章 65: Private chat (1)

After dinner, mother brings me with her to have tea, leaving the men alone to discuss.

I am a little worried about Antonio and Marius causing an incident. And father's face isn't comforting either.

But mother insists, so I leave them alone and follow her.

«How are you feeling?» she inquires as soon as we're out of the dining room.

The servants have already brought cigarettes and liqueurs for the gentleman, and they'll relax next to the window while playing cards or chess.

Mother and I will just talk and decide what to do next. No relaxing for us. Oh, sometimes I wish I was born a man.

«It could be worse,» I sigh. «All things considered, I don't feel bad. A bit disappointed, though.»

«All of your plans to get away from the capital failed. It's understandable.»

I nod.

She knows me well, after all. Even if not as perfectly as Aida, she can tell what worries me more and what makes me only complain without any real purpose.